Lochcarron Community Development Company is one of eight social enterprises to pilot a new initiative in the Highlands and Islands

The aim of the scheme is to strengthen the capacity, capability and governance of such groups and has been launched by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) who have teamed up with the Bank of Scotland to provide highly qualified and experienced individuals to serve as non-executive directors on social enterprise boards.

The specialists bring skills from a range of backgrounds including commercial, retail and private banking, alongside those of project management, leadership, finance and commercialisation.

Eight social enterprises from Lochaber, Skye and Wester Ross, Outer Hebrides, Argyll and Bute, Caithness and Sutherland, Moray, Orkney and Shetland are taking part in the six-month pilot.

Portree has been targeted by Police and Trading Standards as part of a national campaign to tackle the unlicensed selling of second hand vehicles.

The initiative, named Operation Petra, was carried out between Monday 27 March, 2017 and today, Thursday 30 March, 2017 throughout the Highland area including in Thurso, Wick, Alness, Kirkhill, Inverness and Portree.

Police and Trading Standards Officers visited individuals who have been identified as regular sellers of used vehicles and who may not have the appropriate licenses. As part of these visits, individuals have been reminded of their legal responsibilities.

Over recent years, there has been a considerable increase in the number of vehicles offered for sale through free ads on the internet and social media. Many sellers do not have license to trade and police and Trading Standards are receiving an increasing number of complaints about abandoned vehicles as well as about unscrupulous dealers.

For after years of planning An Crùbh (The Hub) a community developed café, shop and meeting space will officially open.

The new facility was developed by the community group 'Camuscross & Duisdale Initiative' with the aim of giving locals and visitors alike a place to meet, to shop and socialise.

Business Manager Sharon Campbell said about the project. "Here in Sleat we are lucky to have a very vibrant community. The board from Camuscross & Duisdale Initiative are all volunteers and with feedback from the community, they had the vision, skills and drive to make this fantastic project - An Crùbh happen. We now have an amazing facility on our doorstep which will benefit future generations and attract visitors from near & far. It has created good permanent job opportunities and we have a great team in place to give everyone who visits An Crùbh the warmest of welcomes."

Work on research about the impact on transport and access to healthcare services on the Isle of Skye is to start next week as part of NHS Highland’s Skye, Lochalsh and South West Ross redesign process.

Dr Richard Mounce and Dr Steve Wright, both research fellows at the Centre for Transport Research at the University of Aberdeen, will be travelling to Skye to begin their research on Monday 3rd April 2017.

This work is a key requirement of the redesign process. In particular, it will look at the impact (positive or negative) of any changes to healthcare services the board provides in the area.

The Scottish Crofting Federation (SCF) has expressed deep disappointment at the Scottish Government decision to not introduce the planned Areas of Natural Constraint support scheme, instead opting to reduce support payments to the fragile areas.

“The government have reneged on their promise,” said Russell Smith, chair of the SCF, “which was made in the lead up to this phase of the Common Agriculture Policy. For years government and stakeholders have been working on the Areas of Natural Constraint (ANC) support scheme, which was to replace the Less Favoured Areas Support Scheme (LFASS).”

Police on Skye were involved in a search to locate a misssing man yesterday (March 28)

Officers were said to have been supported by police dogs as they tried to locate a man in his 20s who was reported missing at 1:15pm. However, Police Scotland have confirmed that he was eventually traced safe and well around 2:40pm and then taken to hospital for medical checks.

Just a week after an application for a similar new house was submitted for Glendale, Highland Council are being asked to consider another, this time at Greshornish, Edinbane.

Submitted by Staffin based Jock Gordon Design & Planning on behalf of Mr Chris Watkiss, the single storey underground house with a top soil and grass roof would be located in land 100m south of Redwood House if given the go ahead.

Five of Skye's most popular tourist attractions now have their own dedicated shuttle service.

Portree based Go Skye will be launching the new initiative from mid-April connecting the island's 'capital' with the Fairy Pools at Glen Brittle, the Quiraing, the Old Man of Storr, Dunvegan Castle and the Fairy Glen at Uig.

Already the new service has got the backing from SkyeContact - the recently launched organisation dedicated to actively encouraging the growth and development of tourism and tourism businesses in Skye.

The chased could become the chaser if Winter Series champ Chris James takes part in the latest event run by Skye and Lochalsh Running Club.

All season Chris has dominated local events but on Saturday (April 1) the Kingsburgh Forest Handicap will see competitors setting off according to their average pace in the winter series. That means he will be last man away.

The SkyeConnect launch proved a big success but of all the topics covered on the day it was the decision not to support a local Tourist Tax that proved the most controversial.

And, since the conclusion of the day to herald the arrival of an organisation dedicated to encouraging the growth and development of tourism and tourism businesses in Skye the debate has rumbled on.

Within hours of coverage by The Skye Times there were several comments made via social media. Ben Wear said: "I thought part of the justification for a tourism tax was to enable improved parking, toilets and such facilities?"While Elgar Finlay commented: "Exactly!! The aim is for tourism (and residents) to benefit in a sustainable manor...Folk locally I think would prefer to see money from the visitors and those profiting from them being reinvested in the Islands infrastructure making life better for all.

"At least we now have a locally based organisation who can be mandated to determine and take the issues forward... (I hope). If it is simply just a front for marketing the Island it may not deliver the infrastructure needed to cope."

Now another local Skye resident with years of experience in the tourism related field, Ian McKay, has come up with an alternative view.

Highland Council have confirmed receipt of an ambitious community led plan to take over ownership of part of Storr woodland on Skye.

Staffin Community Trust has submitted an asset transfer request made under Part 5 of the Community Empowerment Act (Scotland) 2015, which relates to less than one hectare of the site for which the proposed purchase price is £1000.

The Trust is seeking to develop a visitor arrival zone including car parking, toilets and the provision of information. In addition to transfer of ownership, the Trust wants a contribution of £400,000 from the Council towards the proposals. The remainder of the 82 hectare site would continue in the ownership of Highland Council.

Tour bus staff have once again shown that they are prepared to do their bit to protect the beauty spots that help make their business so successful.

Last year employees at Rabbie's Trail Burners carried out path repair and improvement work in Skye's popular Quiraing tourist hot spot.

Now once again, the drivers and back office staff have returned and this time, despite driving rain, high winds and hail showers, carried out two days working on badly-needed repairs to the same route, which attracts thousands of people each year.

Seven hardy Rabbie’s staff dug out a damaged and uneven section of path, created a stone-lined ramp, installed a culvert pipe and landscaped the area. The workers faced frequent rain and hail showers but battled on to complete the job.

Stand up comedian Jeremy Hardy celebrates his fourth decade in the business with a summer tour including a visit to Skye.

In 2014, the tenth series of Jeremy Hardy Speaks to the Nation was broadcast on Radio 4. He is also well known for his appearances on The News Quiz and I’m Sorry I Haven’t a Clue. Indeed, Alan Bennett recently said he likes him “but he’s only on the radio”.

The Food Standards Agency have confirmed the recall of serveral products sold through major supermarket chains.

Cleone Foods is recalling two of its patty products because they do not contain the wording ‘use by’ with the date code information indicating the date by which the products can be safely consumed on the packaging.

A local beach clean event on Skye will be one of a host of events tomorrow (March 25) as Highland Council mark WWF's Earth Hour

Between 11am - 1.30pm at Caroy Beach, Northwest Skye,Council Ranger Ellie MacLennan will supervise the clean up. She can be contacted at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or on 01471 820527 for further details.

Now in its tenth year, the Council will join thousands of people across Scotland and millions from around the world in switching off their lights for an hour on Saturday 25 March at 8.30pm.

Reports of screaming and shouting sparked off a rescue drama at Kyle today (March 24)

Shortly after 1pm the UK Coastguard requested that Kyle lifeboat respond to two separate reports of screaming and shouting coming from the bottom of the viewpoint a quarter of a mile east of Kyle.

The lifeboat launched 10 minutes later, and arrived on scene to find a boat drifting around half a mile from the shore. The crew went alongside to ask if they had heard anything, and found out that they were divers who were having trouble starting their boat's engine.

The Scottish Wildfire Forum (SWF) is raising awareness about the increased risk of wildfire across most parts of Scotland over the next few days - as weather forecasters predict very dry conditions.

Vice chair of the Scottish Wildfire Forum, Michael Bruce, monitors the European Commission’s European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS). which provides vital information which can be used to inform the public about the risk of wildfire.

He said: “At the start of spring there is often a lot of dead vegetation leftover from last year.

“This fuel can dry out quickly when there is overnight frost, followed by sunny days with higher temperatures and lower humidity levels.

“We have a high pressure weather system developing across Scotland creating these conditions at the moment.”

North Skye Broadband (NSB), established to provide benefit to communities on the Isle of Skye by building and operating ultra-fast broadband delivery networks, has issued a call to action.

NSB believes that provision of ultra-fast broadband is one of the most important economic benefits for the island since the opening of the Skye Bridge more than 20 years ago.

“We are deeply concerned about the Digital Clearances – the extent to which the lack of access to adequate and affordable broadband contributes to the population decline of fragile rural communities in Skye.” says Geoff Semler, NSB Chair.

“Very large telecoms and media companies that have sufficient financial and other resources to just set up better broadband where it doesn’t presently exist have no intention whatsoever to do so in our communities – as far as they are concerned, they know that they won’t make any profit if they do.

Skye's connection to an infamous clan massacre way back in the 16th century has again come to the fore.

For more than 50 human bones found at the appropriately named Massacre Cave on Eigg have been identified as being part of the atrocities back in 1577.

It was then that a revenge attack by the MacLeod's of Dunvegan is said to have ended in the killing of virtually the entire Macdonald population on the island.

Last October tourists discovered 53 bones and informed police, who in turn contacted Historic Environment Scotland (HES). Archaeologists have now dated the bones to the time of the infamous massacre of hundreds of islanders.

Portree High School's Ester Strachan's love of life and determination to succeed against the odds has been rewarded.For the youngster from Ashaig, Breakish has been chosen as this year's Lord Lieutenant's Special Award winner.

At the Lord Lieutenant’s Youth Award Presentations, held in the Strathpeffer Pavilion, Ester was among over 70 young people nominated in various categories, many drawn from Skye as well aso Plockton, Gairloch and Ullapool.

The nominations are for young people aged between 11 and 18 and come from all over my Lieutanancy area of Ross, Cromarty, Skye and Lochalsh. Most of those nominated were able to attend the presentations together with 2 guests and those who nominated them.

However, announcing the special award winner, Lord Lieutenant for Ross, Cromarty, Skye and Lochalsh, Mrs Janet Bowen, said: "I had the privilege of reading every nomination submitted, each of which is an individual story of hard work, dedication, determination and joy in achieving great results.

Completing training and final handover details means that the new post office at the An Crùbh community hub looks likely to be delayed.

Earlier reports suggested the new service would operate from March 24 but now, via social media, the Duisdale Beag facility have confirmed it will be Thursday 13 April before the postal services will be operational there.

Meanwhile work is proceeding apace to try and ensure An Crùbh's shop and cafe are ready in time for the planned Saturday 1 April opening.

Port staff at Calmac’s office in Armadale have drawn on their own imaginations to create a very special and unique fun zone for children.

Generous donations of toys from staff and friends have created a colourful area within the port office, which is there to be enjoyed by youngsters, whether they’re dropping in from the community or travelling on the ferry.

The project is the brainchild of the staff at the port and, with support and input from manager Catherine Young, they have sourced everything from furniture to toys, crayons to colourful decorations – port assistants Gary Mahon and Sam Graham have been particularly involved in the venture. And it is all laid out on an alphabet and counting jigsaw mat.

The new furniture is handmade by Mallaig port assistant Colin Fisher and includes a table and benches decorated with fabulous sea creatures, hand painted by Gary Mahon. The special, super-dooper, small people-sized benches and table are a riot of all manner of sealife from the friendly pink octopus creeping across the table, to brightly drifting jellyfish and a selection of rockpool and beach favourites like sea urchins and starfish across the two benches.

On Thursday, 30 March, the traditional music course students from Sabhal Mòr Ostaig present a night of Gaelic song, music and piping with guest pipers, singers and musicians Decker Forrest, Christine Primrose, Murdo Cameron, Ingrid Henderson and Angus MacKenzie. The event kicks off at 8pm.

Popular Skye folk noir band, The Dead Man’s Waltz, return this year to celebrate their tenth anniversary. They will give a concert in An Talla Mòr on Friday, 31 March at 8pm as part of their tour taking in Stornoway, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Manchester.

Scottish Athletics have confirmed that Skye's half marathon will this year host the North District championship bringing some of the region's top runners to the race.

Already set for its biggest entry numbers ever, so far over 750 have put their names forward, the Skye event has now grown significantly in its standing within the sporting community following with the latest news.

The awarding of championship status is a first for Skye's half marathon and race director Mark Crowe said: "We are absolutely delighted that the Skye Half Marathon has been awarded the North District Half Marathon championship for 2017.

Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) will host a series of public meetings to update communities on the design and build of the new dual fuel vessel for the Skye Triangle route and to discuss harbour infrastructure at Uig, Tarbert (Harris) and Lochmaddy.

Communities are invited to attend their local meeting where representatives from CMAL, Calmac Ferries Limited, Transport Scotland and the relevant local authority will attend the meetings. On Skye this will be at the Uig Community Centre, on Monday 3rd April, beginning at 7pm.

CMAL, which owns ferries, ports and harbours across the west coast of Scotland, will present the latest progress report on construction of the new 102 metre dual fuel vessel, which is one of two currently being built and is ear marked to serve the Skye Triangle route. It will be capable of running on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and marine gas oil (MGO), helping to reduce carbon emissions. The vessel will carry up to 1,000 passengers and provide 646 metre vehicle lane capacity, which is approximately 25% increased carrying of a mix of cars, light vehicles, coaches and heavy goods vehicles.

A new management new team will oversee the running and re-branding to Armadale Castle, Gardens & Museum of the Isles in time for the start of the 2017 season.

The changes revolving around the leadership of Clan Donald Lands Trust follow the recent resignation of the CEO, Jan Walwork Clarke to pursue other interests, so reported James Macdonald Chairman of the Executive Committee of CDLT.

On behalf of the Trustees, he thanked Jan Clarke for her contribution over the last 2 years. He went on to express his confidence in the outlook for the 2017 season, having passed operational control to the newly formed Management Committee, made up of CDLT’s existing skilled & experienced staff.

The Scottish Crofting Federation (SCF) says crofting has a future despite the uncertainties of the coming years, but warns that crofters will need to stand together to ensure that future.

“Following an extremely thought-provoking SCF annual gathering in Applecross, on the place of crofting in Europe,” said Russell Smith, chair of the SCF, “and given the result of the Crofting Commission elections, it is clear that crofting has a future – but it is something we will have to fight for.

“Speakers at our gathering presented plenty of evidence to show that a sustainable future for rural communities, food production and the environment depends on small-scale holdings with a range of activities and an holistic approach to rural development. Brexit doesn’t seem to have anything positive to offer Scotland but a fresh look at a replacement for the Common Agriculture Policy will be a vital opportunity to find a policy that works for crofting.”

Folk in Staffin are being asked to take a new home to their hearts..and give it a name.

Highlands Small Communities Housing Trust (HSCHT) is constructing a three-bedroom affordable home in Flodigarry and is seeking ideas from the local community for a suitable name.

The Staffin Community Trust and Flodigarry Township Trust’s preference would be for a Gaelic name, which would have some meaning to the locality in which the house lies. It is close to the Dun Flodigarry Hostel, the “Horse Park” and Flodigarry Hotel.

While house building continues to dominate local planning applications here is something unusual, but is it the very first for Skye?

Waternish based Skyedesigns are the agent for this eco-friendly earth sheltered house which is planned for Glendale.

The applicants are Mr and Mrrs Neil Maclean and if given the go ahead the new house will be built on land - or should that be built under land - some 60 metres south west of Fon Tobar at Lower Milovaig.

Portree High School's Orla MacLeod and Ruaridh Stewart from Plockton High have been elected as a Member of the Scottish Youth Parliament for the Skye, Lochaber & Badenoch constituency.

The SYP is made up of around 150 young people aged from 14−25 across Scotland.[1] Representatives are known as Members of the Scottish Youth Parliament (MSYPs). Every constituency area can elect a MSYP to represent the views and opinions of young people.

Ruaridh (2nd left)

In addition some MSYPs also attend representing Voluntary Organisations. The SYP meets three times a year.

A dance teacher from down under could turn out to be a big hit on Skye.

For the founder and director of the Wagana Aboriginal Dancers, Jo Clancy is coming to Portree after teaming up with Skyedace. Jo is a descendant of the Wiradjuri people of Western NSW in Australia and has been teaching and performing for over 25 years.

She said: "Aboriginal dance is derived and inspired by everything around us. The earth, the sky, the animals and birds, stories passed down from generation to generation for tens of thousands of years. The movement that comes when I dance feels like an imprint. It’s like following a map that I unconsciously know.

With deadline day approaching, the Crofting Commission is reminding crofters that they are legally obliged to complete and return the Crofting Census, which was issued at the end of last year. Completed Crofting Census forms need to be returned by the 31 March 2017.

The Crofting Reform (Scotland) Act 2010 requires crofters to complete the Crofting Census each year and if they fail to provide the information without reasonable cause, by the date shown or knowingly provide false information they will be guilty of an offence under this Act.

A debate about the future of rural policy and support for Scottish agriculture and forestry needs to commence regardless of constitutional uncertainty, according to Scottish Land & Estates.

At the heart of this debate will be the structure of support for farms and rural businesses. Scottish Land & Estates supports a long-term strategy of greater emphasis on farming and land management delivering public goods.

The organisation, which represents landowners and rural businesses across Scotland, has today published its new policy paper: A new direction for Scottish land management. The document is the starting point for research being carried out by Scottish Land & Estates over the forthcoming year on the future of rural policy in Scotland.

The idea of a "bedroom tax" or similar levy on tourists and visitors to Skye as a way of getting finance for improving facilities was firmly rejected by Marc Crothall, the chief executive of the Scottish Tourism Alliance, speaking at the inaugural meeting of skyeconnect, the local destination organisation, on Saturday (March 18th),

At the meeting in the Aros Centre, Portree, which was sponsored by NFU Mutual, a number of concerns were raised by audience members - including the decline in island bus services and how that affected both visitors and local people trying to work in the tourist industry; the state of the Armadale-Mallaig ferry service; the need for affordable housing both for local people and as accommodation for people coming to the Island to find work; the problems caused by the lack of broadband connections and the failure to roll-out superfast to so much of the area; and the possible options for getting additional money spent on improving the conditions for everyone.

The challenges of dealing with soaring visitor numbers, traffic problems, parking needs and the shortage of public toilets at beauty spots in Skye were described yesterday (Saturday March 18th) at the first meeting of skyeconnect, the new destination organisation for Skye and the surrounding areas.

Those attending heard how making provision for these visitors - who were being criticised by local people on public health and traffic safety grounds - was not part of the remit of the regional administrations or public sector bodies.

And Hugh Ross, of the Staffin Community Trust, pictured above, and Nick Duffill of the Minginish Community Hall Association, explained how their organisations - although set up for different purposes originally - were now shouldering the responsibility of trying to provide better facilities.

Police initially asked for help from the public after failing to find 77 years old Albert Pirie. However, the Highlands and Islands Police Division have now confirmed that he has been found safe and well. No further details are available at this time.

Skyeconnect, the new designation management organisation for the tourism and visitor industry in Skye and Lochalsh, was formally launched at a major event in the Aros centre in Portree today (Saturday March 18th)

Shirley Spear, who chairs skyeconnect, announced the official start of the new organisation and the fact that support has been won from Highlands and Islands Enterprise to appoint a project officer.

The auditorium at Aros was packed for the launch with people from tourism-related businesses in Skye, Raasay and Lochalsh.

A stellar line-up of award-winning artists is set to descend on stages in the south of Skye over the next few months as SEALL (Skye Events for All) rolls out its brand new 2017 programme.

Last year, the Sleat-based community-led live arts promoters celebrated 25 years of bringing some of the country’s leading performing artists to the south of Skye. It also added to its list of awards, Venue of the Year for SEALL at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig in the MG Alba Scots Trad Music Awards 2015.

Working from offices and venues at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, SEALL delivers over 80 live events a year, which include the annual two-month-long summer Fèis an Eilein (The Skye Festival) in July and August and the Skye Swing Jazz Festival at the end of October.

Scottish traditional music provides the basis for SEALL’s work but the annual programme also brings the best known names in music to the south of Skye featuring jazz, opera, world folk, new music and dance.

Sleat's Kinloch Lodge is celebrating after being voted Most Hospitable Hotel at the 2017 Scottish Thistle Awards, recognised as Scotland’s tourism industry’s Oscars.

The hotel’s founders, Lord & Lady Macdonald, accepted the honour on behalf of the Kinloch team at a celebratory awards ceremony and dinner, last night (16th) at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre. TV presenter and Deacon Blue drummer, Dougie Vipond, and presenter and former Miss Scotland, Jennifer Reoch hosted the glittering event.

Lady Claire Macdonald, said: “It was so lovely to represent the Kinloch team at the wonderful awards ceremony. Although we are still very much involved with Kinloch, Godfrey and I handed over the day to day running of the hotel and restaurant to our daughter Isabella and chef director Marcello Tully nearly 10 yeas ago and it has been wonderful to watch them take Kinloch forward and to continue to go from strength to strength, we are very proud of everyone.”

A concert special presented by Linda MacLeod marking ten years since the publication of the magisterial book, Songs of Gaelic Scotland, by singer, author and academic, Anne Lorne Gillies. Cuirm@Celtic: Anna Latharna agus Caraidean showcases songs from each themed chapter from the book. The songs cover centuries of music from Scotland's most significant Gaelic composers and bards. Appearing onstage with Anne at St Luke's in Glasgow is a group of acclaimed singers and musicians including Arthur Cormack, Kathleen MacInnes, Angus MacLeod, Rachel Fraser and Alan Kitchen.

Martin King of DNA Media congratulating CalMac’s marketing manager Peter Griffiths at the London ceremony

Caledonian MacBrayne, together with The Lane Agency, has won the digital marketing campaign of the year category at The Travel Marketing Awards.

The company and agency were recognised at the UK-wide event in London for The Two Eejits series of short films – CalMac’s first campaign aimed specifically at the millennials sector.

Edinburgh-based The Lane Agency developed the fun and innovative film series for CalMac to appeal to a younger audience, showing that travel to the islands is inexpensive and easy to plan. Called ‘The Two Eejits’, it also sought to face head-on perceived issues of bad weather and the lack of anything to do, with plenty ideas for great adventures regardless of rain, hail, sleet, snow or anything else the notoriously fickle west coast weather gods can dredge up.

SEALL director Duncan MacInnes (front right) and administrator Marie Lewis with artists from Catherine Wheels Theatre who performed at Sleat Primary School earlier this month.

A generous funding boost will secure the future delivery of quality live performing arts on the Isle of Skye over the next year.

Skye Events for All (SEALL), the performing arts promoting company based at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig in south Skye, has been awarded £55,000 from the National Lottery through Creative Scotland’s Open Project Fund.

The money will go towards developing the administration necessary to take the organisation forward and improving the programme by increasing the quality and quantity of events.

Director, Duncan MacInnes, said: “With this funding from Creative Scotland, we will be able to create the high level of administration our programme needs. We have relied on a lot of volunteer support for years and, because of this, often miss out on artistic and fundraising opportunities.

North Skye's local community has formally submitted a bid to purchase land close to the iconic visitor hot spot of the Old Man of Storr.

The Staffin Community Trust (SCT) has lodged an Asset Transfer Request (ATR) to The Highland Council for a section of roadside ground near the popular island landmark so it can construct a new car park, public toilets and interpretation.

It comes after several years of talks between SCT and the council, a major community consultation and the conclusion of a site options appraisal/business plan by a consultant team.

The local community has significant concerns about parking congestion and road safety at the busy site, which is off the A855 Portree-Staffin road, and the lack of toilets, which has sparked public health complaints. These concerns have been exacerbated because of the increasing numbers of visitors to the Storr with an estimated 150,000 people in 2016, which is an increase of 60,000 people from 2014’s total.

Based in Waternish, The Stein Inn is run by Angus and Teresa McGhie and has rooms dating from 1790. Located on the edge of Loch Bay, the Inn boasts tranquil views, an impressive collection of over 130 whiskies and a warm welcome!

The Highland Council is informing groups and individuals that from Saturday 1 April 2017 charges for school lets will increase by 10% in Highland schools.

The Council’s budget gap for 2017/18 has been identified at £20.344m and this price increase is anticipated to generate additional income of £29,437 which will help the Council to deliver a balanced budget in 2017/18.

The popular annual Skye Wheel Nuts show faces its own race against time if it is to survive.

For founder and chief organiser of the event where vintage cars, bikes and trikes are the stars, Ricco Perri, has suddenly announced that he will be standing down from his lynchpin role.

Via the Wheel Nuts facebook page Ricco from Edinbane, who has been at the heart of the annual Portree show, which last summer was highlighted in The Skye Times, said: "Due to circustances beyond my control......I find I am no longer able to organise and run further S.W.Nuts shows .

The Food Standards Agency have issued warnings after a series of food product recalls.

Tesco is recalling a batch of its Oriental Kitchen Chicken Chow Mein product because it was incorrectly packed with Tesco Chicken Curry and therefore contains egg, milk, mustard and sesame, which are not mentioned on the label.

This means the product is a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy or intolerance to egg and/or milk or milk constituents, and/or an allergy to mustard or sesame.

Caledonian MacBrayne has been shortlisted for two major awards recognising its role in supporting rural economies across Scotland’s west coast.

The nominations both underline contributions made as a business rooted in the communities served by the UK’s largest ferry network and the difference made to those who live within those areas.

The company’s network stretches from Campbeltown and the Isle of Arran in the south through to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis in the north – a distance of some 200 miles – and includes 24 islands and two mainland-to-mainland routes.

With 1,400 staff, many from across the Highlands and islands, employment is a key element in the contributions made to some of Scotland’s most fragile economies, but the role of the company in supporting business and commerce, not least a growing and vibrant tourism sector, is significant and on-going.

Thirty three young people came together for a four day residential to improve and widen their Gaelic speaking and writing skills.

The Highland Council’s Gaelic Team, in partnership with Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, and with financial support from Bòrd na Gàidhlig organised the Gaelic Annual Residential ‘Seachdain nan Deugairean’ event for young people which took place last week at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig – the Gaelic College in Sleat.

The course involved pupils drawn from from Portree, Plockton and Mallaig High Schools and involved both Gaelic fluent speakers and Gaelic learner pupils.

Key issues centred on Sleat were at the heart of discussions held at the week-end.

Highland Council leader, Counc. Margaret Davidson, along with local representatives, Councs John Gordon and Hamish Fraser, had an informal session with Sleat Community Council representatives at the Hotel Eilean Iarmain.

After great success at Edinburgh Fringe and King's Head Theatre, London 2015, solo drama "A life with the Beatles" is coming to Portree's Aros Centre this evening (Mar 14)

2017 is the 50th anniversary of the release of the ground-breaking Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, a focal point of Davide Verazzani's ‘A Life with the Beatles’, which follows the story of The Fab Four from the unique perspective of Neil Aspinall, who served the band for 46 years, from driver to CEO of Apple Corps – always by their side, knew everyone and everything.

CuillinFM are anticipating a reduced signal strength as essential work takes place on their Skriag mast.

The community radio say there will be a temporary reduction in power tomorrow (Mar 14) on 102.7FM between the hours of 10am and 3pm and with a 25% power reduction some of the outer areas may not pick them up well for a while.

The 2017 Highland Council election has been officially called today (Monday 13 March) with the Returning Officer seeking nominations from candidates wishing to stand in the local government elections which take place on Thursday 4 May.

A total of 74 Councillors will be appointed to represent the Council in 21 electoral wards, each with three or four elected members.The deadline for nominations is 4.00 pm on Wednesday 29 March

The Returning Officer for the election is Steve Barron, Chief Executive, The Highland Council and in the lead up to the election, a series of briefings for prospective candidates have been held in Inverness; Fort William; Skye; Dingwall; Golspie and Wick which have been well attended.

Voting will be taking place on 4 May in 267 polling stations with the option for people to use a postal vote. If you choose to vote by post then you cannot vote in person at a polling station.

Just days after SNP MSP Kate Forbes brought Raasay residents and NHS Scotland officials together to discuss healthcare issues on the island her Labour counterpart has again made her views known.

Earlier this year Rhoda Grant visited Raasay to talk with locals about the situation and said she had now received a reply from NHS Highland’s Chief Executive, Elaine Mead, to questions raised by residents.

She said: "I am concerned that out-of-hours health care on Raasay is increasingly being handed over to the community, leaving residents, who are not medical experts, making difficult decisions.

"There are a number of confusing and perplexing answers. For instance, the community nurse should deal only with people aged 16 and over due to training and registration, although that is countered by NHS Highland saying that the “nurse always sees” children but may need to refer them for treatment to the GP or hospital.

Skye and Lochalsh Young Carers are celebrating after receiving a £82,000 plus award.

The funding follows a detailed application and ultimately successful application to BBC Children in Need.

Announcing their success on social media they said: "We have been awarded the fantastic amount of £82,672.00 which will help towards the running of the service to provide much needed support to all of our young carer members.

'I want to learn' was the basic message from Crofting Commission Chief Executive Bill Barron to crofters meeting for the Scottish Crofting Federation annual gathering in Applecross on Saturday March 11th.

Mr Barron was only recently confirmed as permanent chief executive after three months in the post as an 'acting CEO' and took the opportunity to introduce himself in detail to crofters and invite questions on many subjects - excluding the current commission elections.

Mr Barron said he "was delighted to have this job." He explained he had 35 years experience as a civil servant working for the UK Government and the Scottish Government, starting out as a statistician for 15 years and then moving on to become a policy adviser, working on education, poverty, health, policing, criminal courts and latterly housing in Scotland. "I had absolutely no knowledge of Crofting at all" until taking up the post in October last year. He and his family live in a small community outside of Edinburgh and he has some experience of working in community organisations there.

Looking ahead to the impact of Brexit on agricultural support, Robin Calvert - a crofter from Rogart in Sutherland - made a plea for support payments to be revised to take account of the effort put in to keep land in crofting areas in a useable condition.

He was speaking at the annual gathering of the Scottish Crofting Federation being held at Applecross on Saturday March 11th.

Mr Calvert runs a 44 hectare croft called Reichalmai with his wife Penny and this forms the basis of their company the Well Hung Lamb Company which they have been running since 2001 through their croft butchering unit. They also have Highland Cattle, free range pigs and poultry, hay and some root crops. Their aim is to be self-supporting while maintaining high standards of animal welfare and controlling the whole process to add value to their produce.

The impact of Brexit on Scottish rural development and crofting in particular was the subject of a keynote address by Dr Michael Russell, the Minister for UK Negotiations on Scotland's Place in Europe at the Scottish Crofting Federation annual gathering in Applecross.

The meeting on Saturday March 11th heard Michael Russell explain how when he was appointed as 'Minister for Brexit' in August last year that there was no structure in place for dealing with the negotiations.

Ultimately a committee was established as part of the Joint Ministerial Committee structure between the Governments which he said "was not effective at all". It was "totally controlled from London" - with all meetings taking place there and always chaired by a UK minister. "There's no decision-making function" within the joint committee structure.

A new eBook and film – including scenes from Skye - which have already been viewed almost 83,000 times on You Tube a part of VisitScotland promotional campaign for the Highlands.

With the region long celebrated for its rugged landscapes, unspoiled coastlines and strong outdoor and wildlife links, the new video produced by the national tourism organisation brings these locations to life and lifts the lid on what makes the Highlands a unique and memorable destination.

The film and eBook which is broken down into five sections ‘see’, ‘feel’, ‘meet’, ‘do’ and ‘eat’, will be used by VisitScotland to encourage people to ‘Discover Your Hidden Highlands’ and will be promoted across its global digital channels, to encourage people to visit this spring.

Highland Council has agreed all the recommendations made by its Redesign Board and now looks set to having more decisions made at a local level.

Under recommendations put forward the Board proposes a significant shift to localism. More council business would be decided locally, with closer connections between the Local Committees and the communities they serve. The Board recommends changes to governance, with fewer strategic committees and more decision making at local level.

The Board also endorses a more commercial approach for the Council, raising income to help sustain jobs and services across the region. It recommends a new Commercial Board is established for the Council and new practice is put in place to increase commercial opportunities and a more business-like approach.

Communities, businesses and individuals across Scotland are being asked for nominations for new rural awards celebrating estates and landowners that help their local region to flourish.

Scottish Land & Estates has today launched the inaugural ‘Helping it Happen’ awards, which will recognise landowners and rural businesses that play a key role in enabling and supporting success in rural areas.

The construction of two dual fuel ferries - one of which is expected to serve Skye - is approaching a new project milestone as the first vessel, currently known as Hull 801, nears the 75 per cent steelwork fabrication stage.

Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL), who are behind the construction projects, have also confirmed that the second vessel, Hull 802 is following closely behind, currently at 60 per cent steelwork fabrication. Both are expected to be in service by late 2018.

The 102 metre vessels will be capable of operating on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and marine gas oil (MGO), reducing emissions to help meet Scottish Government reduction targets across transport. They are being designed to provide a fully flexible, year-round service for Arran and the Skye Triangle routes.

The construction of two new affordable homes at Kilbeg in Sleat has begun bringing with it the start of an exciting new initiative on Skye.

The Highlands Small Communities Housing Trust (HSCHT) is working in partnership with Sabhal Mòr Ostaig (SMO) to provide the sustainable low-cost homes for rent next to the college.

This is the first stage of a wider development which is strongly supported by the Scottish Government, The Highland Council and Highlands & Islands Enterprise. It is anticipated the scheme will provide a varied range of housing and commercial opportunities over the next few years to enhance the campus facilities and to create a more vibrant, sustainable community.

Current and aspiring Gaelic media industry professionals are being offered the chance to apply for MG ALBA’s coveted bursary scheme, as it launches its Celtic Media Festival scholarship for 2017.

A total of five places at this year Celtic Media Festival are up for grabs for candidates demonstrating a keen interest in pursuing a career in Gaelic screen media, or for individuals who already work either as a freelancer or with an independent production company producing Gaelic programmes for BBC ALBA.

This year, the Celtic Media Festival is taking place in Douglas on the Isle of Man from 3rd – 5th May. It is an annual three-day celebration acknowledging excellence in broadcasting and film talent throughout the Celtic countries of Scotland, Ireland, Isle of Man, Wales, Cornwall and Brittany.

Iseabail Mactaggart, Director of Strategy and Partnerships at MG ALBA, said: “The Celtic Media Festival is a key event, both for networking and for understanding the trends that affect how viewers are watching and using media content. Our bursary scheme has been extremely popular and is testament to the level of enthusiasm from young talented individuals seeking a career in Gaelic media to grasp every opportunity available.

A couple of canine cops could come in handy as police in Portree try to round up their latest street wise offenders.

In fact a local grass – or two – might also help as officers attempt to track them down.

For local police have promised that they will bring to an end the problems being caused by… a flock of sheep.

At the recent meeting of Highland Council's Isle of Skye and Raasay Committee members were told that the flock have been causing concern by wandering unchecked around local streets. Now officers are being tasked to put an end to the woolly walkabouts.

On more significant issues the committee also heard that domestic abuse and cyber crime were new priorities for Police Scotland.

Members of the public are being asked to look around their house, garage and loft for any crutches, zimmer walking frames or walking sticks that they have been given by the NHS that are now no longer needed.

Dr Susan MacGregor, occupational therapy and physiotherapy service manager at Raigmore Hospital, is urging people who no longer use this equipment to return them to the hospital.

She said: “Walking aids are frequently lent out to patients to use during their rehabilitation but they should be returned to us once they are no longer needed, so that we can give them to other patients who need them.

Young people are being sought to help find out if a Portree needs a teenage playpark.

Local Youth Development officer, Annie Davidson, is looking for a few volunteers aged 12-17 from Portree to help Lochalsh & Skye Housing Association complete a residents' survey about the playpark at the Home Farm development and whether there should be one for teenagers.

In a call made via social media they say: "We need more volunteers to help in our fabulous wee shop, so that we can open more days, and a little longer everyday too.

"Even if you can only spare an hour or two a week that would be great. We would be ever so grateful if you can help, and if you can't maybe you know someone who can. Please get in, pop into the shop, or phone us on 01471 822043.

Highland Council has been alerted to a Council Tax scam whereby scammers are cold calling and emailing residents claiming to offer a refund.

The companies are asking tenants/residents to give their bank account details, credit/debit card number and the three number security code on the back of the card. The advice for the council is as follows:

From thousands of crew members and volunteers across the UK, Kyle's Pat Mucklow has been singled out by the RNLI as they mark International Women's Day. (March 8)

Since she was just 23 years old Pat, now turned 80, has been involved with the rescue organisation and worn many hats - not to mention a few helmets - as everything from a crew member to station treasurer, secretary, shop volunteer and fundraiser

Recently she was awarded both the RNLI Silver and Gold Badge for working with the charity for over half a century and to mark Pat's involvement the RNLI have put together her very special story.

Originally a member of the Mallaig lifeboat she moved to Kyle just prior to the port's new lifeboat arriving for trials in spring 1995 when she was invited to be the station treasurer.

She said: "Although age prevented me going out to sea any longer, I could still man the radio at the lifeboat station and I had first aid training under my belt.

Young Skye apprentice Daniel MacIntyre, who took a hard won place with Calmac, has been helping the company show off its success in recruiting new young and skilled staff.

As part of Scottish Apprenticeship Week, the 18 year od from Kilmaluag has been telling of his experiences which led him from working on board Uig fishing boats to expanding his expertise in mechanics supported by Calmac

Daniel said: “The fact that CalMac is a great company to work for, that I had a real interest in engineering and that I wanted to work at sea all made me want to apply.

“I really enjoy meeting new people and learning new things, although I do find it difficult spending lots of time away from home at the moment, but I am beginning to adapt to this.

Skye Flying Club has landed a new two year agreement which will allow them to continue their activities at Broadford's Ashaig aerodrome.

Established to encourage more people to experience the thrill of flying over the region, in the longer term the club is looking to purchase another plane but in the meantime have been given the option to use a Bulldog, an aircraft type that has been used by the RAF for flight training.

Now, with the agreement of Highland Council, the local fliers are intending to construct a new taxiway from their hangar to the main apron which will allow the plane to be based full-time at Broadford.

Planning permission is being sought to create a new campsite at Carbost.

If given the go ahead the scheme would involve creating an area to cater for upto 15 caravans and 10 tent on land around 100 metres south east of the Old Schoolhouse.

Included in the scheme is the provision of a toilet/shower block with associated septic tank. Provision of chemical toilet emptying point, drinking waterand a store. At the same time a new access/egress to the public highway would be put in place togetehr with land drainage works as required.

Owner, Paul McGlynn, has received recognition worldwide for his quality seafood and enjoyable visitor experience. Features in National Geographic, The New York Times and The L.A. Times have promoted the business and given the shop a loyal fan base from all over the world.

In early April 2017, Paul plans expand his thriving business with the opening of a new shop in Dornoch, Sutherland - where they will continue to showcase their Hebridean shellfish, fresh fish and unique gifts.

Motorists using the A9 are being asked to plan ahead for traffic restrictions as ground investigations forming part of the dualling scheme go ahead on sections closest to Inverness

Works begin on on Monday 13 March and are expected to take three weeks.

Although most of the work will not be carried out on the existing road, the traffic management measures will be in place to allow work beside the carriageway to be carried out safely. The traffic management arrangements will include short, alternate single file traffic sections controlled by temporary traffic signals.

On Thursday 9 March Sabhal Mor Ostaig in Sleat will be the place to find out more on how the Scottish Parliament works and to have your say about it.

The event runs from 3pm-4pm with tickets free of charge although places have to booked either by calling 0131-3486400 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

A line-up of award-winning artists is set to descend on stages in the south of Skye over the next few months as SEALL (Skye Events for All) rolls out its brand new 2017 programme.

Last year, the Sleat-based community-led live arts promoters celebrated 25 years of bringing some of the country’s leading performing artists to the south of Skye. It also added to its list of awards, Venue of the Year for SEALL at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig in the MG Alba Scots Trad Music Awards 2015.

Working from offices and venues at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, SEALL delivers over 80 live events a year, which include the annual two-month-long summer Fèis an Eilein (The Skye Festival) in July and August and the Skye Swing Jazz Festival at the end of October.

Scottish traditional music provides the basis for SEALL’s work but the annual programme also brings the best known names in music to the south of Skye featuring jazz, opera, world folk, new music and dance.

Are Portree's long suffering NHS dental patients finally going to get something to smile about?

In recent years locals - and those from surrounding areas - have had no choice but to grin and bear it as the failure to retain dentists at the Public Dental Service Clinic at Sraid An Eorna led to difficulty getting appointments and latterly, for most, only being able to access treatment in emergencies.

Now though NHS Highland have announced that a thought to be substantial number of patents at the clinic, principally those not prioritised as having additional needs, are being transferred to a new new dental Practice from later this month.

In letter to those effected, NHS Highland's Clinical Dental Director, John Lyon said: "As of 13th March, 2017 your registration for NHS dental services will be transferred to Portree Dental Care, a new dental Practice which is opening in the same premises as the Portree Dental Clinic. Portree Dental Care will be run by dentist Mr Zahid Ahmad."

They are nearly there. Skye's famous ferry,Glenachulish, is just a few hundrd pounds short of its £5,000 target figure.

At the start of the week Isle of Skye Ferry Community Interest Company launched an appeal to raise the money to help pay for a new wheelhose for the boat, now hailed as the last manually operated turntable ferry in the world.

And, today (Mar 03) the company announced that they have had a massiv e £4,700 donated so far.

More information about plans to bring new affordable homes to Staffin is being made available to locals.

On Saturday (Mar 4) Rural Design architect Alan Dickson will be on hand to discuss the proposed site layout and design at a community consultation drop-in event.

Local residents will be able to comment on the development at the SCT office between 2pm and 5pm. Anybody unable to make that time can call into the SCT office the following week from Monday, March 6 to Friday, March 10, between 9am and 5pm, and view the plans then.

Staffin Community Trust (SCT) is progressing plans for six new houses and business units at a site on common grazings tenanted by the Stenscholl Township. SCT is working in partnership with the Highlands Small Communities Housing Trust and Lochalsh and Skye Housing Association to deliver the new affordable houses, which would be the first built in Staffin since 1999.

Treasurer and long standing member, Stuart Ashton, died doing what he loved best, being out in the hills.

The family man, who together with his wife Tania, ran their B&B business at Crossal, collapsed while out walking with two others, also believed to be mountain rescue colleagues, in the Kintail area.

Stuart is thought to have been on his way to a meeting when the group decided to spend some time in the hills. After he collapsed the alarm was raised and Kintail mountain rescue team were involved. The exact cause of death is not yet known.

In a glowing tribute to their former colleague Skye Mountain Rescue Team announced via social media: "It is with great sadness and regret that Skye MRT wish to announce the recent death of one of its most valuable and respected team members: Stuart Ashton.

Family fund-raiser Kenneth Gillies has said a big thank you for the fantastic support received for a local cause.

Last month the Skye man and family members organised a charity event that was very much close to their hearts.

Kenneth said then : Last October I lost my uncle Duncan Mackinnon to Huntington's disease after suffering from it for a number of years.

"I'm hoping to try and raise some money for the Scottish Huntington's charity because their going to need help in the future. I would be grateful to all the local folk of Skye and beyond if they could come and support us on the night. "

And local folk certainly did. For the ceilidh, staged at Portree Community Centre with music by The Ballochmyle Ceilidh Band brought in a mammoth £7,150 for the cause.

Another supermarket product, this time from Tesco, has been recalled after discovery of a foreign object in it.

Just weeks after the Co-op was forced to issue a similar notice after a small battery was discovered in one of their chocolate bunny products, the Food Standards Agency has confirmed that Quorn Foods Ltd is recalling Quorn Meat Free Mince because the product may contain small pieces of metal

Skye's successful young film makers, along with others from across the Highlands, were the focus for some special attention from council chiefs

Their winning ways in the ninth annual Gaelic FilmG Awards was highly commended as members of The Highland Council’s Education, Children and Adult Services Committee met.

Committee Chairman and Skye Councillor, Drew Millar said: “Congratulations to all the Highland entries, shortlists and winners of FilmG. I am particularly pleased to see so many of our schools, both pupils and staff taking part in this prestigious competition, which I am delighted that Highland Council was able to support as sponsor of the open Best Comedy award.”

Director of Care and Learning, Bill Alexander said: “We have some extremely talented people here in the Highlands, young and ‘older’, whose talents and creativity shine in the spotlight of opportunity created by FilmG. A huge well done to all those who took part and to the Highland winners.

A proposal to relocate Dunvegan Primary School to a new building received approval today (1 March 2017) from The Highland Council’s Education, Children and Adult Services Committee.

Members of the committee agreed to recommend to The Highland Council that the school should be re-located to a new build at Lonmore, less than a mile from its current location. The new site offers the opportunity for the school to be co-located with planned new community facilities.

Remote sensor monitoring specialist, EkkoSense, has teamed up with electricity network provider, Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN), to trial an early warning sensor design. This software could allow power companies to predict storm damage before it happens.

The initial trial will take place on the Isle of Skye this spring.

EkkoSense's solution combines three key technologies: an Internet of Things (IoT) sensor, LoRa long-range wireless communications, and solar power - all of which will help detect when a power pole leans further than it should in high winds. The device communicates the need for maintenance before any further damage causes it to collapse.

Red Roof Café in Glendale will be closed for the 2017 season, it was announced today (Wednesday March 1st) on their Facebook Page.

Owners Gareth and Iona Craft state: "We have been struggling to recruit enough staff for this season, and this year we have had to fill more roles than usual due to a number of staff deciding to take a break.

"Another significant factor in making this decision is our desire to develop the croft in order to grow some more of our own fresh produce. In October 2016 we acquired the remainder of the original 5-acre croft on which the café is situated. We have been working hard to develop the croft over the winter, and have decided to continue this effort through the summer of 2017.

Kyle RNLI are looking for volunteers to step forward and help run their lifeboat gift shop.

They say: "We are looking for volunteers to join our small, friendly team at the RNLI gift shop in Kyle of Lochalsh from April to October and also help out at a number of events through the summer.

"From Easter onwards, the shop will open 11am to 3pm, Tuesday to Saturday inclusive. We are particularly looking for people who can offer a minimum of two days/8hrs per month. No previous experience is required.

"Duties involve opening and closing the shop, serving customers and generally keeping things tidy. Full training and induction will be given and volunteers will be covered by the RNLI Volunteer Commitment. "

To find out more email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for details.